HSPA Surgical Instrument Tray Assembly

Question 1

What is the primary reference document used when assembling a surgical instrument tray?

Accepted Answer

The count sheet or pick list that specifies every instrument required for the tray

Answer

Count sheets (also called pick lists or tray lists) are the authoritative reference for tray assembly. They specify every instrument by name, quantity, and often by position within the tray. Using the count sheet ensures consistency and completeness, preventing missing or extra instruments that could affect surgical procedures.

Question 2

Why must instruments with box locks be opened before sterilization?

Accepted Answer

To allow sterilant to contact all surfaces including the concealed areas within the box lock mechanism

Answer

Box lock joints (such as those on hemostats and scissors) have overlapping metal surfaces that trap moisture and create areas inaccessible to sterilant when closed. Opening or placing instruments on the first ratchet position allows steam or chemical sterilant to penetrate all surfaces. Instruments sterilized in the closed position may not be sterile at the box lock.

Question 3

What is the maximum recommended weight for a wrapped instrument tray?

Accepted Answer

25 pounds

Answer

AAMI ST79 recommends a maximum instrument set weight of 25 pounds to ensure adequate steam penetration, drying, and safe handling. Excessively heavy trays can cause wet packs due to condensation that cannot adequately evaporate, and they increase the risk of musculoskeletal injuries to staff during handling and transport.

Question 4

What is the purpose of an instrument stringer during tray assembly?

Accepted Answer

To organize and secure instruments with ring handles in an open position, keeping them orderly and allowing sterilant access

Answer

Instrument stringers (or pin racks) hold ringed instruments in an organized, open position within the tray. This organization prevents instruments from stacking on top of each other, facilitates counting and verification, and ensures each instrument is in the proper position for sterilant contact. Stringers also prevent damage from instrument-to-instrument contact.

Question 5

What inspection should be performed on each instrument during tray assembly?

Accepted Answer

Visual and functional inspection for cleanliness, damage, proper function, and correct alignment

Answer

Every instrument must be individually inspected during assembly for residual soil, staining, corrosion, damage to tips or jaws, proper alignment, sharpness (for cutting instruments), and smooth ratchet function. Defective instruments must be removed from the tray and replaced. This quality check is the last opportunity to catch problems before the tray enters sterilization.

(HSPA) Healthcare Sterile Processing Association Certification Practice Test

(HSPA) Healthcare Sterile Processing Association Certification Practice Test

HSPA Surgical Instrument Tray Assembly